Carol has been a mentor with Le Chéile for over 10 years and is based in Cork. While meeting up with her mentee, Carol has taken up new hobbies such as Thai Chi! 

What do you do? 

I am a family support worker, I love my job working in the community with people. I also love gardening and being outdoors, I love walking and seeing new views, especially at sun rise or sunset. I volunteer with different fundraising events within the community and love planning events. I am a wife and a mother to six children who are all grown up now.

What is your favourite book, film or album and why?

I love “Breakfast club” which is a 80’s movie about five teenagers who receive Saturday detention and the movie shows they all have different experiences and come together exploring their backgrounds and sharing some of their experiences.

Have you ever had a mentor – now or when you were younger?

Yes. My Aunt, when I was younger showed me about budgeting and saving and I started in the local credit union because she encouraged me. Later in life, a colleague who mentored me in work and encouraged me to explore options and taught me to see the impact of my role in other people’s lives.

What are the key skills or personal attributes needed to be a good mentor?

You need to be a good active listener and non-judgemental. You need to be flexible and organised. Being  a good problem solver will help in the role also.

Want to know more about volunteering with Le Cheile Mentoring? 

If you would like to find out more about volunteer mentoring, please explore our website and fill out our online application form. You can also contact our National Volunteer Coordinator, Maxine on 0872016801 or maxine@lecheile.ie.